Cork flooring is a great alternative to hardwood and other types of flooring. Before you consider the installation of cork flooring, you should know about its properties, advantages, and disadvantages.
What is cork flooring?
Cork flooring is sustainably harvested from the bark of the cork oak tree without harming it. It can be harvested every decade, and then it grows back. Most cork is grown in the area around the Mediterranean Sea. Cork flooring isn’t a new idea, as it has been used in the U.S. since the turn of the century. Traditionally, cork flooring has been used in churches and libraries. Cork is a durable option for flooring, but quality and maintenance can affect its lifespan.
How is cork flooring made?
After drying in the forest for several months, the bark is transported to a factory, where wine bottle corks are punched out of it. The leftover material is boiled and ground up and compressed. This ground-up product can be cut and used as a final flooring piece or for some unique patterns.
What are the advantages of cork flooring?
- It comes in a wide variety of design possibilities
- It is environmentally-friendly
- It’s considered to be made from recycled content
- It has a cushiony feel under your feet
- It is sound-resistant
- It offers insulation qualities
- It’s antimicrobial
Cork flooring disadvantages
While cork flooring is a great investment for your home, it does have its disadvantages.
- It is not indestructible, and it will scratch from heels and furniture feet.
- It has a potential to fade with exposure to light.
- Cork flooring can also be affected by the level of humidity in your home, causing it to swell up or warp.
- Cork flooring is more costly than many varieties of carpet and tiles.
Now that you are properly informed about cork flooring, you can have it installed to enjoy it for years to come!
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